Squatters in our Brochure Holders

At LDS Tourism Services we have a name for the unauthorised leaflets that appear in our display units from time to time. As a clue, the ornithologists among you will no doubt be aware of a certain feathered critter known for laying its eggs in the nests of other birds - frequently evicting the host’s clutch and live young in the process. Yes, you’ve guessed, these freeloading flyers are known to us as ‘cuckoos’!

Over the years we've evicted our fair share of ‘cuckoos’. In fact, signs on our stands inform potential squatters: “Unauthorised Material Will Be Removed”. Nevertheless, there are inevitably a handful of distributors who think we won’t spot a leaflet or two promoting their clients among all the others. They couldn’t be more wrong!

Whilst extremely annoying, this has never been of serious concern – until now. We have suddenly noticed (what could only be described as) flocks of ‘cuckoos’ appearing in our holders; to such an extent that we have been impelled to contact various businesses to let them know their leaflets will never reach the public. It would be unfair to highlight individual names because we are quite sure this problem is down to one or two unscrupulous distribution companies rather than the attractions themselves. However, it’s a great pity to see so much promotional print go to waste and it benefits nobody in the long-run.

So, the moral behind this story is beware unprincipled businesses passing themselves off as reputable distribution firms. If they offer to display your leaflets in hundreds of stands throughout the region (perhaps for half the price), then they are probably cuckoos in doves' clothing.

Cruising Llangollen Canal

Over the bank holiday weekend I was fortunate enough to enjoy a lovely day out on a canal boat. We hired the Dydd Un for the day from Llangollen Wharf as a birthday present for my Father-in-law.

We started out bright and early driving over to Llangollen and the weather could not have been any better. It was fairly quiet when we arrived ready to collect the boat but by the time we were on our way it was becoming much busier. As we were waiting for other members of our party to arrive we were able to explore the boat. Heading down the stairs there was an indoor room with a little kitchen area and a small toilet. From there you head out to an open area with seating down the side of the barge, perfect for spotting the wildlife as you gently pass by.

The route suggested is approx 10 miles heading down towards the Trevor Basin, over the Pontsyclle Aquaduct and back again. On our way we moored near the Telford Inn for a delicious lunch in the sun.

It was a perfect family day out and I would recommend it to anyone. We soon got to grips with the steering and there are plenty of helpful people to lend a hand for when we went a little off course. The views in the part of North Wales are stunning and they were made even better by the gorgeous weather.

Forward Planning Pays Off For Leaflet Marketing Company

As the country basks in glorious sunshine, there is every indication that camping and caravanning holidays are enjoying an amazing resurgence. Indeed, according to a recent holiday poll of over 2,000 people, thirty percent of Brits are staying in cheaper accommodation such as a tent or caravan to save money this year.

Regular readers of this blog will know that we predicted such a trend over twelve months ago. We were also correct in thinking that the strength of the euro would increase awareness of what the UK has to offer. Consequently, we were able to plan ahead and target caravan sites, B&B’s, marinas and a range of self-catering establishments with our various leaflet campaigns. We have every confidence that our forward thinking will result in clients benefitting from the predicted 20% rise in British holidays taken this summer – not to mention the shift towards leisure travellers who prefer weekend breaks.

We have a number of exciting and innovative new plans in the pipeline, which we hope to implement over the coming months in order to take full advantage of the transformation within the tourist industry caused by the recession (not least the decline in business and corporate travellers). All will be revealed in the very near future.

New leaflets and brochures continue to arrive at the Border Distribution Centre on an almost daily basis. Hot off the press are: Word of Mouth: People & Places in Wales (Issue 19), Chester Mini Guide, BugWorld Experience, Cumbria Culture Guide and many others.

If you would like further information about our services, please feel free to drop us a line or ring up for a chat on 01244 671859.